What more can you say than that getting a college education in Hawaii means spending time in paradise? Everyone knows that Hawaii is one of the most beautiful, pleasant, friendly and enjoyable spots on the planet. Between classes it will be no big deal to hop on your surfboard and catch a few waves. The nightlife is worthy of any major city, and you are also in close proximity to islands where life has changed little in hundreds of years. Whether you are an active type who enjoys swimming, hiking, surfing and sailing, or a more relaxed person who just wants to sunbathe on the beach, you are likely to find your college days in Hawaii to be a major highlight of your life.

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Hawaii Career Colleges: Legal Services Degrees

What Paralegals and Legal Assistants Do

Paralegals and legal assistants do a variety of tasks to support lawyers. These tasks may include preparing legal documents, conducting legal research, maintaining records, answering telephones, assisting attorneys as they prepare for trials, and interviewing potential court witnesses. Paralegals must have excellent communication, problem-solving, research, and organizational skills.

Work Environment

Paralegals and legal assistants are found in all types of organizations, but most work for law firms, law enforcement agencies, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. They usually work full time, and overtime is sometimes needed to meet deadlines.

How to Become a Paralegal or Legal Assistant

Most paralegals and legal assistants have an associate?s degree or a certificate in paralegal studies. In some cases, employers may hire college graduates with a bachelor?s degree with no legal experience or specialized education and train them on the job.

Pay

The median annual wage for paralegals and legal assistants was $46,990 in May 2012.

Job Outlook

Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 17 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. This occupation attracts many applicants, and competition for jobs will be strong. Experienced, formally trained paralegals with strong computer and database management skills should have the best job prospects.